Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on April 2014

Possibly the first beach party of 2014, Shonan Festival on Chigasaki’s Southern Beach is chock-a-block with fun activities for the whole family. There’s a plethora of soccer-based games as the 2014 World Cup approaches, as well as paddle races, live performances and the usual yatai food stall fare. One event not to miss is Mazar Cup 2014, a skimboard competition. Skimboards are much smaller than traditional surfboards and have no fins, meaning boarders have to glide along the surface of the water. Originated as a means of transport across the beaches of Southern California, the Shonan Festival offers a rare chance to catch this art form in action.

Apr 26-27, Southern Beach in Chigasaki City, Kanagawa.